Festive activities are gradually returning across the West Bank as a delicate ceasefire continues in the Gaza Strip, even as hundreds of thousands of displaced residents endure harsh winter conditions in temporary shelters and face critical shortages of basic necessities.
Marking the start of Christmas observances in Bethlehem, Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, led the customary procession from Jerusalem to the city revered as the birthplace of Jesus. The ceremony followed his recent visit to Gaza’s Church of the Holy Family—the territory’s only Catholic parish—where he conveyed the Catholic Church’s solidarity with the local faithful.
Speaking after arriving at Manger Square, the Cardinal said he carried warm greetings from Gaza’s small Christian community, highlighting their determination to rebuild despite ongoing hardships. He also expressed hope that the Christmas season would be one of light and renewal amid continued uncertainty.
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